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Monday, May 1, 2017

For The Readers Of Liberty’s Torch

First, a happy announcement; then, a question of the utmost gravity:

1. Announcement.

Hans Schantz’s science fiction techno-thriller The Hidden Truth is available today and tomorrow for only $0.99, which makes it the biggest bargain in high-quality indie fiction since I last gave away Which Art In Hope. Moreover, Hans tells me that the sequel is nearing completion. Treat yourself!

2. Opinions Badly Needed!

I really need your help with this one, Gentle Readers. Please take it seriously.

Can a 65-year-old married engineer buy a red Corvette convertible without making a fool of himself?

Fran, as you have worked all for life (as did I), and any "entitlement" is what you can financially/responsibly afford, then I'd say you are entitled to own and drive the Vette. Have fun, but (channel your inner engineer) do understand that some models of Corvettes have unfortunate "stable 2" modes, not unlike the Apollo Command Module. Rollovers are not pretty at any age, and selfishly, I want you writing for a long time.

The corvette is awesome and all but there are too many of them. That's what everyone your age buys. May I suggest a 1969 chevy Chevelle, or some other muscle car of the late 60's, early 70's. Finding one in mint condition requires effort. It's not as simple as going down to your local car dealership and letting a salesman help you pick one out. I think the old cars are more impressive, and have way more character. I, myself, personally am much more in awe when I spot a candy apple red 1966 GTO than I could ever be with a 2017 corvette.

People who would consider you a fool for having a rag-top 'vette fall into two basic categories:Teenagers. And their opinion doesn't matter.All others can be considered to be jealous of you. A sub-category of this group would be those who are annoyed that you are enjoying yourself. Lots of people think this way. They are the real fools.

As someone knocking on the door of 65, I can relate. I would chose either the C5 or C6 generation. Ignore the Z06 option, it rides harshly and will only garner you more moving violations. Also make sure you can climb into and out of the vehicle easily. If it's a chore to get in and out of, the love affair will quickly fade. Cheers and good luck.

I've had a hoot with my souped up Mustang GT, and it's a lot less mannerly and respectable than a 'vette. Always wanted one, and now I'm happy to have it. Who cares if some slob in a Prius thumbs his nose in the air at you.

If it makes you happy and you can afford it by all means do so, BUT you are not going to get a whole lot of use out of it on Long Island. Most of the year the weather will prevent you from taking it on the road, & the roads themselves will wreck the car as well. Seriously picture yourself driving it on the LIE low to the ground, surrounded by SUVs & tractor trailers, while hitting all the pot holes. If you lived in the Southwest or FLA I'd say Hell Yeah, but I live in Long Island and I know what the roads are like.

To be honest, there are several ways we can make fools of ourselves, red Corvettes are only one of them - and happen to be one of the most fun. Mine is a Firemist green metallic 1972 LT-1... I may make a fool out of myself, however, I do not care. You shouldn't either. -Grandpa